Starbuck’s Juniper Latte Tastes Like a Christmas Tree

Another strange holiday drink from yours truly, Starbuck’s. But is it good?

A tall Juniper Latte ordered at the Starbuck’s location in Whittier. The festive drink will be available in hot, cold, and as a Frappuccino throughout the holidays. (Photo by Michael Martinez)

Starbucks displays and expresses their holiday joy through the most trendy and unique drinks each year such as Chestnut Praline Latte, Peppermint Mocha, Eggnog Latte, and Gingerbread Latte. This year, Starbucks is hoping the Juniper Latte can join the trendy drinks. 

Starbucks describes it as a “hint of juniper and sage, an evergreen aroma and citrus notes.”  Made with the company’s signature espresso and steamed milk infused with “juniper syrup.” 

Foam and green pine-citrus sugar are added as a finishing touch. Even though the drink first debuted last year at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Seattle. But this is the first time the drink is available at coffee shop locations nationwide.

The Latte’s main flavor is sharp, pine-forward and a slightly citrusy tang. Starbucks fans who heard about the new drink were unsure of the pairing of the piney flavor with coffee.

 

Many people were conflicted about the Juniper Latte

Some consumers enjoyed it while others disliked the flavor, comparing it with grass and dirt, pine-sol, air fresheners that look like the Christmas trees. 

On the other hand, others thought it was delicious and they would try it again. Comparing it to “a walk in the forest, breathing in the crisp, winter air and fresh pine with a whisper of snow! 

Customers can order the Juniper drink hot or cold, or as a Frappuccino.  You can choose between a cream base or blended coffee.

For the sake of a review, I decided to try the drink myself, keep in mind I am not a coffee lover or one who heavily drinks it. 

The Juniper Latte smells minty with a hint of citrus while I tasted the drink. I would compare it to any regular coffee taste. But to a frequent coffee might taste the minty flavor.

As for me, there was no excitement to this new holiday drink and most likely I will not order the drink again. 

If you’re into the holiday drinks I recommend giving it a chance. It will definitely get you into the holiday spirit.

A version of this article appeared in the Tuesday, Dec. 4 print newspaper. Email Michael Martinez at [email protected].